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FreeCAD


About
Website
FreeCAD

Available for
windows* mac
linux** unix
java

Tags
cad computer-aided-design 3d-modeling

Download FreeCAD
FreeCAD is general purpose CAD (computer aided drawing) software that targets product design and mechanical engineering. It can be easily used for any engineering specialty, featuring tools that are modeled to function like SolidWorks, Solid Edge and Catia. Its main focus is dynamic simulation and analyzation.

It has a GUI (graphical user interface) based on Qt framework and its 3D viewer allows quick rendering of 3D scenes. It is simple to use and easy to quickly figure out its special functions.

For instance, FreeCAD has a plugin/module framework, divided into the core software and modules that can be added when they are needed. Geometry types and nearly all the tools are stored in the modules that can be added or taken off as needed. Tools are grouped around workbenches so that only the tools you need are displayed according to the task you are doing. This provides an uncluttered workspace that is both functional and easy to work with.

This 3D CAD modeler has the ability to sketch in 2D or to take details from a 3D model and create 2D production drawings. Its focus is not specifically on 2D drawings or animation although it does have advanced motion simulation features; it is very adaptable and can be used in a broader area than software like Cinema 4D or Maya.

A user can create a collection of parts and manipulate it with open or closed 3D loops. The parts can be connected with motors, springs, joints, torques or gravity; a multibody dynamics analysis can be used to predict its motion according to the laws of gravity.

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FreeCAD is an open source alternative to

Autodesk AutoCAD
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SolidWorks
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SolidWorks 3D CAD is designed to let ideas be transformed quickly into products. Its powerful toolsets and virtual prototyping generates manufacture-ready drawings in record time with accuracy and... Read more



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